Investigating how BNIP3 affects fat balance in the liver

The Role of BNIP3 in Lipid Homeostasis in the Liver

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO · NIH-11087458

This study is looking at how a protein called BNIP3 helps control fat in the liver, which could lead to better treatments for people with liver issues like Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) and Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH).

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CHICAGO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11087458 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of a specific protein, BNIP3, in managing fat levels in the liver, particularly in conditions like Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) and Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). The study will explore how BNIP3 influences the process of mitophagy, which is the removal of damaged mitochondria, and its effect on lipid accumulation in liver cells. By examining these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover potential new treatments for liver diseases linked to obesity and fat buildup. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved management or therapies for liver conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals over 21 years old who are experiencing or at risk for Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease or related conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with liver diseases unrelated to fat accumulation or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating liver diseases associated with fat accumulation, potentially improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting mechanisms like mitophagy can be effective in managing liver conditions, suggesting that this approach may yield promising results.

Where this research is happening

CHICAGO, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.